The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved —you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household. Acts 16:29-34
Paul and Silas had an opportunity to demonstrate Christian love in a bad situation. They had been beaten and thrown in jail for preaching the Gospel, but when an earthquake opens the doors and breaks their chains, they wait for the jailer, who might be killed if they escape. He is amazed and after they testify to him about Jesus, he takes them to his home where he and his entire family are baptized.
Paul and Silas had every right to be angry, but instead of acting on their own emotions, they accepted the chance to share the Good News. How often do we miss a opportunity like this because we allow the situation to control us? When we submit to God’s authority we give Him control over our lives and refuse to let earthly things interfere.
God can use any interaction we have for good. I have a friend who prays for those who cut him off in traffic. Do they know he is doing this? No, but that’s not the point – by lifting them up he avoids an angry reaction and prayer is always powerful. Try diffusing a difficult situation by giving it to God rather than reacting as a human.
Loving Lord, we are prone to anger and emotional outbursts. Help us to see opportunities to serve You and share Your love when we face trying times. May we behave as Jesus did, meeting opposition with calm resolve and faith. Amen.